Oyebanji and Opponents Sign Peace Pact Ahead of June 20 Ekiti Gubernatorial Election to Reject Violence

Gbenga Sodeinde in Ado Ekiti

As the June 20, 2026 governorship election in Ekiti State approaches, Governor Biodun Oyebanji and the other gubernatorial candidates signed a peace accord on Thursday, pledging to reject violence and focus on credible, issue‑based campaigning.

The accord, brokered by the National Peace Committee in partnership with The Kukah Centre, brought together key stakeholders—including political parties, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies, traditional rulers and civil society organisations—in Ado‑Ekiti.

The candidates jointly committed to peaceful conduct before, during and after the election, vowing to avoid inflammatory rhetoric, political intimidation and any actions that could disrupt the electoral process.

Governor Oyebanji, the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, described peace as essential to preserving Ekiti’s democratic reputation, assuring residents that his supporters would behave responsibly throughout the election period.

He also praised the National Peace Committee for its ongoing efforts to promote peaceful elections and political stability across the country.

INEC Chairman Prof. Joash Amupitan said the commission had completed major preparations for the governorship poll, including logistics arrangements and deployment strategies for personnel and electoral materials.

According to him, over one million registered voters are expected to participate, and measures have been put in place to ensure transparency and efficiency in the voting process.

Amupitan warned political actors against vote‑buying, violence and voter intimidation, stressing that security agencies and electoral officials had been directed to enforce electoral laws strictly.

Inspector‑General of Police Tunji Disu also assured residents of adequate security coverage across the state, pledging that security operatives would remain neutral and professional throughout the exercise.

Representing the National Peace Committee, retired Gen. Martin‑Luther Agwai urged political leaders to prioritize the peace and stability of Ekiti over political ambition, warning that electoral violence could undermine democratic gains and threaten community harmony.

He noted that the signing of the peace accord reflected a shared commitment by all stakeholders to ensure a peaceful, credible and acceptable governorship election in the state.

The event concluded with the formal signing of the peace pact by candidates and party representatives, amid renewed calls for peaceful participation by voters and political supporters.